Well, Dan Snyder did not waste any time in firing head coach Mike Shanahan on this beautiful “Black Monday” morning. After Shanahan and Snyder obviously butted heads, especially when it came to franchise quarterback Robert Griffin III, it was a given that Shanahan was on his way out.

With Shanahan gone, the Redskins now turn their attention to a replacement. But, not just any guy will do. The top priority has to be someone who can, first and foremost, help develop Griffin into the quarterback he can potentially be. One of the guys they would like to get likely won’t come to Washington — John Gruden. But, what would the next best option be then? Of course, it only makes sense.

According to multiple sources, Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Jay Gruden would be one of the top candidates for the head coaching job now that Shanahan is gone.

Redskins’ candidate list likely to include Jay Gruden, Mike Zimmer, Lovie Smith. Redskins inquired through third party about David Shaw.

Gruden has coached up third year quarterback Andy Dalton to be a much better player than folks originally thought he would be in the NFL. He’s helped the Bengals reach the playoffs for three straight years now, and offensively has made them much more potent. I wouldn’t be surprised if Gruden wound up in Washington, especially because of how ideal the situation would be.

As of right now, both Adam Schefter and ABC News are two of the major sources that have mentioned Gruden’s name in conjunction with the Redskins’ job. I’m sure, as the hours and days go on, there will be plenty more. As always, we will keep you updated on the situation out in Washington when we hear something next.